MAGICAL BLUE SPIRULINA & WHY IT'S A MUST HAVE!
Ever wondered what all those Insta foodies use to create their mermaid lattes, ocean smoothie bowls and unicorn nice cream? How can these foods be healthy with that insanely blue colour? Blue spirulina is the magical ingredient that makes all these foods come to life!
WHAT IS BLUE SPIRULINA & HOW IS IT SO BLUE?
Blue spirulina is derived from a blue-green algae, Arthrospira platensis; this algae is more commonly known as spirulina.
Phycocyanin is a pigment that gives spirulina (which is a deep green) a slightly bluish colour. The word phycocyanin comes from the Greek phyco (algae), and cyanin (blue-green).
To make blue spirulina, the water soluble antioxidant phycocyanin is simply extracted from the spirulina and then sold as a blue powder. Phycocyanin is only found in spirulina and some other species of blue-green algae and is one of the key differences between spirulina and other green super foods.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?
Besides just providing a beautiful vibrant blue colour, phycocyanin is the main active compound in spirulina and is a powerful antioxidant. In fact, brightly coloured fruits and vegetables are generally an indicator of high antioxidants.
Phycocyanin can fight free radicals and inhibit production of inflammatory signalling molecules, providing impressive antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Preliminary studies suggest the phycocyanin may promote blood cell regeneration, improve lymphocyte activity and lymphatic system to improve immune function, and comprehensively enhance the disease resistance of the body as well as protect cells in the liver and kidneys.
HOW DO I USE IT?
Compared to green spirulina, blue spirulina has a neutral taste making it easy to receive some of the health benefits of spirulina without the algae taste.
Add 1-2 teaspoons (or your desired amount) of blue spirulina into any recipe to give it a nutritious health kick with a vibrant blue colour!
We love using Blue Spirulina in smoothies, lattes, nice cream, baked treats and noodles.
MAKE THIS ULITIMATE BLUE BOWL Recipe here
Get creative in the kitchen. Tag us in your recipes using our blue spirulina!
Written by Emilee, Nutritionist (BHSc Nut Med)
